The Amazing Spider-Man #652

Big Time continues but we know Spider-Man's luck can't hold out forever, right? Get ready for a boatload of Spider-Slayers plus the return of Mac Gargan as the Scorpion. 
 

The Good 

You want character development, that's what you get with Dan Slott writing. I may not be crazy about Carlie Cooper and Peter Parker as a couple but there's a nice conversation involving the two. We also see more of Peter's cast of supporting characters including Flash Thompson and Betty Brant. While setting things up for the new story arc, Slott continues his moments of humor that don't feel forced when they pop up.  
 
Stefano Caselli's art allows the characters to have detailed expressions that speak volumes on their own. When the slayers attack, you get a sense of being overwhelmed by the sheer number. 
 
The back up story by Fred Van Lente and Reilly Brown follows up on J. Jonah Jameson being forced to give Spider-Man the key to the city. There is some great banter between the two and we're left with a bit of a cliffhanger. 
 

The Bad 

The Spider-Slayers. I wanted more Scorpion. I'm sure we'll see more Scorpion action but I can't say I'm crazy about Alistair Smythe. There's also the peak into Mary Jane's inner thoughts. I suppose in some ways it's understandable that she might sink to a lower level but it just felt out of character. Perhaps MJ is evolving as well. 
 

The Verdict 

Despite my disdain for Alistair Smythe and Spider-Slayers, this issue was pure fun. Dan Slott is taking Spider-Man to new places and throws in his humorous touch without interrupting the flow of the story. Stefano Caselli's art makes the characters feel a little more alive with their facial expressions but there were some panels a little light in background detail. Spider-Man might still be in BIG TIME but it looks like his good luck might be about to run out. A back up story by Fred Van Lente and Reilly Brown is an added bonus.